How-To Find Quality Online Resources


Step 1 - Ask your librarian

Your Librarian is your number one source to help you find the best usable, reliable, and accurate information.
Resources from library:
How To Evaluate Web Information.doc
Becoming an Effective Internet Searcher.doc
Big Six Skill Sheet.doc

Recipe for success: (Ask yourself these questions before you use a website for a reference:)
1. Authority - Who says so?
Who is the author and what are his credentials?
Is there information about the author?
Is there contact information?

2. Accuracy - What is the information?
Does the site explain?
Is the site unique?
Is it silly or unintelligent?
Is it in-depth?

3. Objectivity - Why and Where was the Web page created?
Who sponcers the Web site?
Is there a bias to persuade instead of inform?
Domains-
.com (commercial organizations)
.org (usually non-profit organizations - but not always)
.edu (educational institutions)
.gov (government)
.net (organizations involved with Internet services)
.int (international organizations)

4. Currency - When was it created?
When was the site created and last updated?
Are there current links to other resources?

5. Coverage - How is it put together?
Does it look official?
Grammer?
Graphics?
Do you have to register to use the site?
Is it easy to navigate?

6. PRACTICE - Finding good internet information is easier once you practice these steps and use them every time.


Step 2 - Ask your Technology Team

Training in internet use and ways to find information. Shikellamy Wiki:
This site covers many topics. Click on any of the links get help with:
Google
Search Engines
Subject Directories
Subscription Based
Invisible Web
Online Libraries
Online Books
Primary Sources
Encyclopedias
Online Periodicals
Quick Answers
Government Sites
21st Century Fluency
Maps
Evaluating Web Pages

Step 3 - Practice Digital Citizenship

Norms and Practices of Appropriate, Responsible Behavior while using Technology. Adapted from Digital Citizenship.

1. Digital Etiquette - Use technology appropriately or it will be regulated or banned.

2. Digital communication - It is very easy to communicate with technology. Need to make appropriate decisions with regards to communication.

3. Digital Literacy - Must be able to use and adapt to new technologies and evaluate its appropriate use.

4. Digital Access - Need to encourage access to all of society.

5. Digital Commerce - Need to understand how the internet has changed the ecomony. Also must be aware of illegal use - pornography, illegal and stolen goods, and gambling.

6. Digital Law - Need to understand that online materials are PROPERTY and falls under the same guidelines. Hacking, plagiarizing, unauthorized downloads, creating viruses and worms, spam, and identity theft are all illegal and/or unethical.

7. Digital Rights and Responsibilites - With the same rights as freedom of speech and freedom of press comes the responsibility of the user. They must work together.

8. Digital Health and Wellness - Need to take care of body and mind while dealing with computers. Be aware of the risks and protect oneself.

9. Digital Security - Must be aware of the things that can effect our digital use - viruses, data back-ups, and surge suppressors.